Texas House Democrats sparked national attention this summer when they fled the state in an effort to block a Republican-backed redistricting plan that could give the GOP five additional seats in the U.S. House. In response, Republican Governor Greg Abbott petitioned the Texas Supreme Court to remove Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu from office. The court is now reviewing the case, which could set a precedent for punishing lawmakers who leave the state to break quorum.

Abbott celebrated the court’s decision to move forward, claiming it brings the “ring leader” closer to consequences. Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has filed a similar suit against Wu and 12 other Democrats, said crossing back into Texas doesn’t erase “weeks of silencing their own districts.” Paxton and Abbott, once at odds over who could legally bring such cases, are now working together to hold Democrats accountable.

On August 3, dozens of House Democrats left Texas to block the passage of the redistricting bill, a move encouraged by former President Trump, who wants Republicans to expand their slim majority ahead of the 2026 midterms. As the minority party, breaking quorum was one of the few tools Democrats had to delay or derail legislation they opposed.

Democrats argue they acted in the best interest of their constituents. Wu’s attorneys maintain that his absence does not equal resignation, noting he has neither died nor been expelled by the constitutionally required two-thirds vote of the House. They argue his actions reflect the will of voters who oppose the redistricting plan.

Meanwhile, Republicans passed HB 18 to prevent future quorum breaks. The law penalizes lawmakers who walk out by fining them up to \$5,000 for each political donation made or accepted during a quorum break. Those who remain in session are still allowed to fundraise, further increasing pressure on potential dissenters.